Modern V-Cut Design

The V-Cut is a method for blasting underground headings that has become increasingly popular, especially with underground aggregate producers due to its effectiveness in reducing the cost per ton of rock produced and reduction of fines. In general, a V-Cut will utilize fewer holes than a burn cut by removing the overloaded burn holes and replacing them with angled holes that break to the natural free face. These angled holes are typically designed to have an appropriate burden; however, do incur a slightly larger cost than normal production holes due to setup time and drill accuracy and reduced depth of pull.